The Cross of San DamianoByJack Wintz, O.F.M.Source:Friar Jack's Favorite PrayersPublished:Sunday, March 31, 2013

Most
High, glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart; Give me right faith,
sure hope, and perfect charity. Fill me with understanding and knowledge, that
I may fulfill your command.

Franciscan documents of the 13th century indicate that the crucifix before
which St. Francis prayed this prayer was in the little chapel of San Damiano,
near Assisi. The
body of Christ, as painted on this cross, is not bloody or twisted in anguish.
Rather, his body is quite luminous, as if it were already risen, radiating the
fullness of God. Instead of a crown of thorns, this image of Christ has a
glorious halo. And his body with outstretched arms appears to be ascending to
heaven. In short, the image clearly suggests the risen Jesus. Smaller images
around the central figure include Mary and the beloved disciple, the centurion,
and images of the ascension. The San Damiano cross can be the center of a
powerful reflection on the mystery of Easter.